The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans today which will help inform federal nutrition policies for the next five years. The departments’ message was clear – when it comes to achieving a healthy weight it’s about overall diet, not one ingredient or product.

The beverage industry is in full support of comprehensive solutions that help people achieve balance in a way that best fits their lifestyles. And we are doing our part to help Americans reduce their consumption of calories and sugar from beverages.

With our Balance Calories Initiative our companies are providing a wide range of beverage choices, a variety of package sizes and clear, easy-to-read calorie information – on package and at point of purchase – to help people make the choice that's right for them. Just as USDA and HHS recognize that there is not one formula when it comes to diet that works for everyone, we know that people have different preferences when it comes to their beverage of choice.

With the new guidelines we are hopeful that the public and private sector can work together to find comprehensive solutions to public health issues that are real and lasting.